§ Mr. SHEPPERSONasked the Minister of Agriculture how many protests he has received against the incidence of the Ouse drainage rate; and if he proposes to take such action as will prevent further hardship accruing from the activities of the drainage board pending amendment of the scheme?
§ Sir R. SANDERSI have received protests signed by approximately 3,500 persons. In reply to the second part of the question, I have no power to interfere with the exercise by the Ouse Board of1000W the statutory powers conferred upon them under their Order. I understand, however, that expenditure is at present being confined to emergency works only. On the general question of the Ouse Order, my Department is in the closest consultation with the Ouse Board.